Abortion Care Overview

At Southern Tier Women’s Health Services, LLC, abortions under 16 weeks are available using the abortion procedure (vacuum aspiration), which is the safest, most common method of pregnancy termination. Early abortions are available in our office by using the abortion pill (Mifeprex or mifepristone) up to 10 weeks.

By New York State law, anyone, resident or not, may request an abortion without the consent of parents, guardian, or spouse. There is no age requirement or waiting period. We welcome out of state patients.

We ask that all patients have a pregnancy test (home tests are okay) before scheduling an appointment for an abortion. Free pregnancy testing is available weekdays 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Please call for the most convenient times with the least amount of waiting. Ultrasounds to determine gestational size are available most weekdays, by appointment. Our office cannot provide diagnostic ultrasounds. We need to know your blood type (the positive or negative part); if you do not know your blood type, we can order a test.

Office Visit

Patients should plan to stay at the office about 3 to 4 hours, although the actual abortion procedure usually takes 5 minutes or less. (If you are 14- 16 weeks, the pre-op medications will take longer.)

You may have something light to eat an hour or more before your appointment. Other suggestions are: shower or bathe in the morning, bring maxi-pads, wear comfortable clothing, bring a book or something to do while waiting. The office WIFI is available upon request.

All patients are given a choice of pain medications and other medicine as required. All patients undergoing an abortion procedure are given a local anesthetic and medications to minimize discomfort. Sedation and narcotic medications are offered, but general anesthesia is not available. Most patients do well with the help of our supportive staff and pain management medications. Patients requesting sedation must have a ride home.

A detailed aftercare brochure is given to each patient. We maintain a 24 hour telephone service for any post abortion questions or problems. For more information on post abortion emotional reactions click here.

Followup Care

We request that each patient using the abortion pill return for a follow-up exam within 1-2 weeks after the abortion. This visit is provided without charge for 6 weeks after the procedure, and includes a pregnancy test, ultrasound and pelvic exam, if indicated, and a review of your birth control plan. Birth control prescriptions are offered for 6 months with a 6 month extension. Note: during the current COVID-19 pandemic, some follow-ups can be done by phone with our doctor.

Education and CoNSULTATION

We recognize that a pregnancy decision can be complicated and emotionally stressful. Therefore, we support good decision-making with a free education session. All patients have the opportunity to speak to a staff person on the day of the procedure and a brief session is required to obtain informed consent.

For patients experiencing considerable ambivalence or difficulty with the decision we encourage a counseling session before the abortion appointment, either at our office, by phone, or at a facility nearer the patient’s home. We also offer copies of the Pregnancy Options Workbook and other self-help materials.

Important medical conditions to bring to our attention include heart problems or surgery, seizure disorders, asthma, diabetes, current infections or STI’s, bleeding/clotting problems, hepatitis, and allergies to medications. Please inform us of any condition that would affect outpatient surgery under local anesthetic. We are happy to consult with your health care provider if you have complicated medical conditions. Medical clearance from a personal physician may sometimes be requested.

Patients are encouraged to share any history of sexual abuse/assault, domestic violence, substance abuse, and emotional or psychiatric problems that might affect your experience in our office. We want each woman to feel as comfortable as possible; confidentiality is respected.

“Thank you so much for the outstanding care and respect I was given today. Everyone made me feel at ease and comfortable. I certainly made the right decision in choosing your office to help me through this unexpected situation. I appreciate your professionalism and compassion."

- Katharine, Patient of Southern Tier Women’s Health Services, LLC

 
 

Or you may call/text 607-785-4171 (or call toll-free 800-676-9011) to schedule an appointment. Please provide your last period date and insurance info. Typically, we can offer an appointment within the week. Some early evening and Saturday appointments may be available for medication abortions.